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We are pleased to introduce you to some of the finest new music available. Please enjoy your time in the Listening Loft reviewing these exciting new releases. You may listen and purchase by clicking on the appropriate links. CDs are listed in alphabetical order by artist's last name (following the first listing).

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JIM ADKINS | Turning Point | Independent

Breezy and confident. TURNING POINT from award-winning guitarist Jim Adkins is every thing 'Smooth Jazz'. (He picked up 2nd place in the 1999 Billboard Song Contest in the jazz category for his song "Wind Dancing".) The Virginia area musician originally released this Ken Navarro produced album through Positive Music Records in 2002. After a short go with the label, Jim is setting sail on his own with TURNING POINT, thus bringing the title into fruition. We're pleased to see the CD again, and hope to encourage a long life to such a rich effort. The feel-good effort has me listening again and again, even when I'm supposed to be listening to other CDs for Smoothjazz.com. I am hooked from the start with the title track as it melts into one Jim Adkins original after the other. Hard to point out the tunes that stand out, since all of the songs on TURNING POINT are exceptional. In addition to “Turning Point”, we really like “A Kiss From You” (a current Smoothjazz.com Radio Hot Pick”), the award-winning, “Wind Dancing”, the tropical, “Just Chillin’” and the funky, “Get Over It”. But honesly, we like every track very, very much. And if you enjoy good, solid, jazz guitar the likes of Lee Ritenour and Larry Carlton, TURNING POINT is a must for your collection. Sandy Shore

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BARRY AIKEN | Balboa Park | BareMic Music

Always happy to discover artists like Barry Aiken! The Canadian born composer and keyboardist spent five years in San Diego, while attending San Diego State University in the 1980’s. In fact, his son was born just down the road from the historic Balboa Park. Aiken's roots dug in deep during those five years; he was one of the founding members of the San Diego contemporary jazz group, Flight 7. Local jazz enthusiasts will recall… Currently, Barry resides in the beautiful state of Idaho and composes music for network television including ESPN, History, Lifetime, A&E and Golf channels. The new release BALBOA PARK is as fun and cool as it's namesake, America's largest urban cultural park and home to the world famous San Diego Zoo. The CD sounds like a smooth ride through California with smooth jazz, funk, Latin and R&B textures featured on the twelve original compositions. The mostly instrumental project does feature a few soulful vocal tunes showcasing the talented Keely Whitney. Barry Aiken’s playing is at times, cinematic and sweeping, a favorite style of ours here at Smoothjazz.com. Songs like “Travel 2 North” and “Too Little Time” have a Metheny feel to them with their sense of adventure and sweet melodies. The funk meter goes to the top on “Sending A Message” and the groove gauge peaks with “Make Up Your Mind” complete with organ and horns. Really exceptional song writing and playing on this one… Nice to find you Barry Aiken! ~Sandy Shore

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LYNNE ARRIALE TRIO | Arise | Motema Music

Jazz pianist Lynne Arriale's latest release, ARISE on Motema is a musical reflection of the events that occurred in the U.S. in the fall of 2001. The tragedy on the 11th, followed by the outpouring of community support and heroism from all walks of life inspired this collection of tunes. The first song written for the project is the somber "The Fallen" featuring a haunting melody and elegant, fret-less bass. Another original song crafted for the project… The contemplative and hopeful, "Arise" (working title was "For The Heroes"); a beautiful piece featuring Lynne's articulate playing. In addition to the four Lynne Arriale compositions, there are five complementing selections that were arranged to fit into Ms. Arriale’s motif on ARISE, including the powerful surprise, "American Woman”, as well as Bill Wither's, "Lean On Me", Eric Clapton's, "Change The World" and Lynne’s show-stopping arrangement of "Kum Ba Ya". The album is more jazz than pop, despite the songs mentioned above. It would be hard to be anything else with the trio of musicians assembled: Drummer Steve Davis who has over 70 records to his credit and has worked with the likes of Bill Evans and John Pattitucci, and Jay Anderson who has been featured on over 150 recordings and continues to record and perform with the world's greatest jazz artists including Michael Brecker, Steve Kahn, Toots Thielemans, Michael Franks and he's been a regular with Joe Sample since 1992. ARISE is vividly smooth and a must for jazz piano fans. ~Sandy Shore

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THE JON BARRY PROJECT | A Taste For More | Bridgewater Records

Live from Austin, Texas -- It's The Jon Barry Project! A six-piece contemporary jazz outfit stepping up to the cutting edge of Smooth Jazz with their spin on blending jazz, rock, Latin, and New Age together. The band has been described in Recording Magazine as "Pat Metheny meets Spyro Gyra". Their first CD, "Friends Like These" has logged more than 400,000 downloads from MP3.com, making it the #1 most selling jazz CD in 2003 on the popular music Website. The new CD, A TASTE FOR MORE was mastered using state-of-the-art HDCD encoding technology for crispness and clarity by critically acclaimed mastering engineer Steve Hall (Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Brian Culbertson, Tom Petty, Madonna). The album is deep, and offers a lot for the listener. You won’t be popping this in and then out of your CD player, as there are so many musical notions and enjoyable melodies to sink your teeth into. From the lush, dream-like ballads and artfully, evocative tunes (“Wind It Up”, “Daydreaming”, “My Kind Of Change”, and “Circles”) to the driving and funkified (“Start The Clock”, “A Taste For More”, “Road To Catalina”, “Union”) to the in-the-pocket slam dunk format hits (“Ride The Loop” and If Only”). Thirteen originals in all. The group is posed to be a great new discovery in our industry. With their creative, colorful, newsy Website and a growing fan base along with this sonically superior new recording, all eyes are on The Jon Barry Project. ~Sandy Shore

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STEVE BAXTER | In and Out | Slubba Dub

It’s not only totally hip, totally cool, totally today’s Smooth Jazz… It’s trombone! The man behind it all is the multi-talented Steve Baxter… The player, the writer, the producer. IN AND OUT is Steve's first solo project. Touring with the Crusaders, Steve has shared the stage and studio sessions with such artists as Ray Charles, Babyface, Sheila E, Ziggy Marley, and the Temptations. Cool and urbane, Steve Baxter reflects the diversity of his East Coast/West Coast experience. The 'bone' player started playing at 14 in Houston, majored in Jazz Studies at Howard University in D.C., moved to L.A. in ’91 to start his solo career and continue perfecting his craft. We can tell you, that IN AND OUT gets the job done... From mellow, urban ballads that have “hit” written all over them, to funk and Hip Hop to kick-up-the-energy slammin' jams.   All tunes are Steve Baxter originals. Hightlights? I’d go for the title track, “My Groove,” and “Gansta Bone” for the funky, Hip Hop end of the spectrum. And "Sunrise In Houston” as a tasty example of Latin jazz, and the vocal ballads “You Are,” “True Friends,” and “Right Time” on the mellow side.  Smoothjazz.com Radio is featuring "Pain" as a Hot Pick. I’ll make this prediction: When the trombone takes its place alongside the sax and trumpet as one of the staple lead horns in this genre of music we call Smooth Jazz, the name Steve Baxter will be in the forefront. Get on board this train now, as it gathers momentum and get yourself a copy of IN AND OUT. Step out onto the leading edge! ~Scott O'Brien

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SERGIO CAPUTO | That Kind of Thing | Idiosyncrasy Music

Do you know Sergio? Well here's a little background info for you. The super smooth guitarist was born in Rome, Italy. He began his musical career with overnight success in 1983 as a singer and songwriter with the release of "Un sabato italiano". Sergio's unique style of jazz-infused pop defined an entirely new genre of music and became an immediate sensation in the European music scene. Sergio Caputo's prolific recording career continued over the next two decades to produce 13 CDs, with numerous hits that have topped the pop charts year after year. The artist's prestigious collaborations include recordings with jazz legends Dizzy Gillespie, Tony Scott and others, and live performances with the likes of Lester Bowie. Recently, Sergio relocated to California where he has written and produced this brand new, delicious Smooth Jazz CD, THAT KIND OF THING. That 'kind of thing' happens to be an ultra suave kinda thing. You know, chillin' in your car, driving down the coast highway kinda thing. The CD launches with the in the pocket, Smooth Jazz hit, "Everything I Do" and tracks into a cool collection of assorted musical flavors and textures including the use of a sexy trumpet and a smokey saxophone on several favorite tracks, including the moody "Intimacy", the beautiful Spanish-influenced, "Like A Shooting Star", and the sensual and hopeful, "Waiting For Your Love". Other favorite tracks include the captivating, "Serenata roja" and my personal favorite, "Jazzy Girl", which offers a city-chic, hipness. The artist plays all guitars on this stellar recording as well as keyboards, programming and sample editing on all songs and bass on most songs. Now you know Sergio! And THAT KIND OF THING is sure to be your kind of thing as it provides one of the finest listening environments that we've heard all year. ~Sandy Shore

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TIM COFFMAN | Nonstop to Paris | Rolltop Music

Vintage guitars & microphones, spy movie mystery, bachelor pad sax and a nonstop flight to Paris. This should set the stage for you for producer Tim Coffman's cool, new eclectic romp of smooth jazz, cool jazz and new jazz. This hip release from the longtime music industry mainstay, showcases his style for flair and fun. As color to a painter, Tim utilizes the skills of veteran musicians on NONSTOP TO PARIS to create his unique and fresh "Jazz Soundtracks", namely, trumpeter Mitch Manker (Ray Charles, Hootie and the Blowfish, Fattburger), guitarist T.J. Tindall (Robert Plant, Bonnie Raitt, O' Jays, Four Tops), saxophonist John Rekevics (Natalie Cole, Randy Newman) and guitarist Anthony Da Luz (Robert Vaughn and the Shadows). While Tim Coffman wrote, produced, and engineered the CD, he also played bass on each track, providing the heart and soul of NONSTOP TO PARIS. The project begins with the exotic, Brazilian influenced "Secret Meditation" and flows from cool tune to cool tune. With a nod to early Bob James, "Just Passin' Thru" features Stan Getz-esque sax work and killer keyboard licks. The title track is captures the 007 vibe featuring soaring trumpet and hidden agendas. Another favorite is "Slinky Feet" with it's 60's carefree stroll and laid back vibe. Get your passport current, brush up on your French, the next flight out is NONSTOP TO PARIS. ~Sandy Shore

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NICK COLIONNE | Just Come On In | Three Keys Music

Nick Colionne has been honing his musical skills since his stepfather started teaching him guitar at age nine on Chicago’s West Side. He was touring professionally by the time he was fifteen! And tour he has over the years since… Chicago’s Winterfest, the Apollo in Harlem, the London Palladium, the North Sea Jazz Festival… Just some of the venues that have been graced with his Wes Montgomery-inspired sound. He’s even played for Bill Clinton at the Democratic National Convention. JUST COME ON IN is Nick Colionne’s 4th album since 1994, and it's his debut on the respected Washington D.C.-based Three Keys Music label. This top-notch new release is moving quickly up the Smoothjazz.com Chart, and with its smash hit radio single “High Flyin’” it is easily Nick's most successful album to date. If you aren’t already a Nick Colionne fan, JUST COME ON IN will most definitely convert you. Folks from the Chicagoland area already know what we’re talkin’ about! There are plenty of radio-friendly tunes on this CD (“It’s Been Too Long” and the title track in particular) that should keep it on the smooth jazz airwaves for months to come. We're also digging on the grooves of “Downtown” and “Drumbalaya,” as well as his salute to his idol and home, “From The Wes Side.”  No question about it, this man can tear it up on the guitar. Join the growing numbers of Nick Colionne fans. The time is right, so JUST COME ON IN and add this one to your Smooth Jazz collection! ~Scott O'Brien

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BARRY DANIELIAN | Common Ground | Bdeep Music

Somebody get the door for this guy. About to enter into the Jazz and Smooth Jazz arena as a soloist is one very accomplished and sought after musician. Note the name, trumpeter/producer/arranger Barry Danielian. One of NYC's most in-demand session players. His discography reads like a Who's Who in the recording industry. From pop (Celine Dion, Paul Simon, Billy Joel) to rock (Lenny Kravitz, Southside Johnny, John Hiatt) to jazz (Spyro Gyra, Nestor Torres, Dave Samuels). Barry has performed with the cream of the crop including James Taylor, Doobie Brothers, Bruce Springsteen, Ricky Martin and Brandford Marsalis. He's had regular gigs (spanning years) with the Tito Puente Orchestra, Blood Sweat & Tears, Eddie Palmieri Latin Jazz Group, Tower of Power and Emmanuel. He holds a degree in jazz performance from the Berklee College of Music. So how does a nice guy like Barry Danielian end up in a place like this? Well, jazz has always been his first love. On COMMON GROUND, the artist introduces his fresh, urban instrumental sound to what we believe will be a very receptive audience of listeners. Cool, deep grooves that you might associate with Hip Hop and R&B weave throughout COMMON GROUND adding a bit of Bling Bling to Barry's smooth tone. The urbane, “Street Smarts” will bring to mind early Rick Braun, while other album favorites include the confidently funky title track, the smooth and retro, “When I’m Away”, the vocal-spiced groove, “My Brother’s Keeper” and the bright jam, “Keep On Keepin’ On”. ~Sandy Shore

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TERRY DISLEY | Experience | Disley World Music

Right up front, I’ve gotta tell you…I love Terry Disley’s playing. I have for a long time now. From his recent work on J. Thompson’s successful debut album, “Romantic Night.” From the six years he spent as keyboardist with Acoustic Alchemy. From his work with Dave Stewart (Eurythmics). The time for beginning his solo recording career has come for Terry Disley. He’s more than ready, and his first project is a most impressive launch. EXPERIENCE is top-shelf piano and keyboard work. EXPERIENCE is a collection of 12 well-written and well-paced Terry Disley originals. (Did I mention that he started composing music at the age of 11…two years after starting his study of piano and music theory at London’s Salterton School of Music?) EXPERIENCE is deeply loaded with accessible Smooth Jazz that sounds awesome in a radio mix, and will sound even more awesome in your CD player. Terry’s piano and keyboard work approach Smooth Jazz from a pop and New Age perspective. A refreshing change of pace from the plethora of Smooth Jazz guitar-based albums on the market right now. The music’s melodic, cosmopolitan, compelling. Take the first track on the CD, “3 Arabian Nights.” It’s full and rich, with a definite sense of intrigue. “Are You the One?” is unquestionably a radio smash, featuring the fine sax work of the San Francisco Bay Area’s Norbert Satchel (Tower of Power). It has a style and flair reminiscent of Gato Barbieri’s performance on “Europa.”  Check out the reggae-flavored “Twist It Up,” the laid-back and jazzy “City Lights,” and the sweetly quirky “Graduation,” a personal favorite of mine. EXPERIENCE beautifully summarizes the essence of Terry Disley’s credentials and at the same time invites you to listen to and live the adventure of his debut solo album. Add this disc to your Smooth Jazz collection, and you’re guaranteed to EXPERIENCE the joy of Terry Disley’s playing. ~Scott O'Brien

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FREDDIE FOX | Freddie Fox | Foxhole Records

Have you noticed how many new Smooth Jazz guitar albums are out now? Take our word for it, there's a lot. New releases from most of the smooth guitar icons, plus a host of newcomers who have thrown their Fenders and Gibsons into the ring. Formidable among the new crop are the guitarists who’ve been paying their dues for years as sidemen and who now deserve their time in the spotlight. Which brings us to one Freddie Fox… Tennessee born, Berklee College Of Music educated, So Cal bred (at least for the past 20 years)… with impressive credentials that include tours with names you know (Atlantic Starr, Jennifer Holliday, Vesta Williams, Eric Benet, Sheila E, and his wife, Evelyn “Champagne” King) and albums from equally famous folk (Walter Beasley, Warren Hill, Curtis Stigers, Najee, Michael Lington). None of this would mean a thing, though, if Freddie’s new self-titled project weren’t such an outstanding freshman effort. These days it takes something special to really perk up our ears here in SmoothJazzland. And FREDDIE FOX delivered just that! Fact is, Mr. Fox gets it! He knows what works for Smooth Jazz right now. This one’s a slam dunk, one fashionable track right after the other, from the lead radio hit, “From The Heart” to the reggae-tinged “Sensual” and “Johnniea’s Love,” to the fun retro-disco “My House” with wife Evelyn on background vocals, to the engaging ballad “Strawberry.” Solid writing (every track is an FF original) + solid performances (from Freddie and his all-star guests Gerald Albright, Michael White, Ronnie Foster, Alex Al, Larry Kimpel, and, of course, wife Evelyn “Champagne” King.) = a solid album. We like Freddie’s playing alot. We like FREDDIE FOX alot, and we think you will too! You can put money on this one… If this album is any indication, we bet you'll be hearing much more from Freddie Fox in the future. ~Scott O'Brien

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JEFF FRIEND | It's Not What You Think | Forward Media Group

This is one slick, cool CD! The Ohio-based drummer has hit a home run with IT’S NOT WHAT YOU THINK. The first song on the album, “Too Many Cars” was the last tune written for the project. An upbeat, R&B tune with retro hook ala “Green Onions”, with cool traffic sound effects making for a fun listening experience (maybe not while you’re driving). “Smoothie” has the Smooth Jazz signature all over it with super sophisticated sax and trumpet work and is currently a Smoothjazz.com Radio Hot Pick, be sure to listen for it. On Jeff’s website, he says that this song was inspired by Sade, not so much her sultry vocals, but her band's ability to groove. Another stand out tune on this delightful release is “The Copycat”, with its breezy stride and hip trumpet playing. IT’S NOT WHAT YOU THINK offers a mix of smooth jazz and progressive jazz. In other words, there’s meat on the bones. And where’d he get that album name? Jeff claims that those who know him and his rock background may expect his recorded music to be something other than this… Which is rich, melodic jazz. Well, now that we know Jeff Friend, we think he’s right on the money and we hope to hear many more great works in the future that continue to surprise us! ~Sandy Shore

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A. RAY FULLER | The Weeper | A Ray Artists Music

Ray Fuller contacted me directly a few weeks ago. Said he had a new CD out and that he'd like me to hear it. "OK", I said, not prepared for the way it would make me feel the minute I set it to spin. I called him up after my first listen and left him a long, gushing message about how his music makes me feel joyful and happy. I never do this. There are only a handful of artists that really, truly know how to hook up a recording to hit the listener so deeply that their world is altered during the experience. Bob James... George Benson... This level knows how. And so does "The Weeper", a nickname given to guitarist Ray Fuller by George Duke for his emotive playing. A Chicago native, guitarist/composer/producer Ray Fuller has recorded and toured with such noted artists as Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Branford Marsalis, Natalie Cole, Boney James and Quincey Jones. THE WEEPER is his debut solo release on the A Ray Artists Music label. The album is simply fantastic - Heartfelt in each and every piece. Sensitive to whatever the song desires, whether that be funk and groove or reflective and soulful. Guests include Phil Perry, George Duke, Eric Marienthal, Branford Marienthal and Everette Harp. The songs will knock you out from the well-thought out covers (Stevie Wonder's "If You Really Love Me", The Isley Bros.' "Work To Do", John Coltrane's "Naima" and a favorite of mine, Leon Russell's "Superstar") to the originals "Weeper's Thang", "Speak Brother', and "Friday" (co-written by Jeff Lorber) to mention a few. If joy and happiness are on your 'To Do' list, THE WEEPER belongs in your collection ASAP! ~Sandy Shore

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G-FIRE | G-Fire | Boosweet Records

A guitar enthusiasts dream come true! Four distinctive, critically-acclaimed, top-notch guitarists emerge with an all instrumental CD. Disclaimer on CD should read, "Please do not attempt this at home". Guitarist, composer, featured artist and executive producer, Vernon Neilly (Johnny Guitar Watson, Teena Marie) is joined by three of his compadres, Morris O'Connor (Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight), Kevin Chokan (Diana Ross, Jeffrey Osborne) and Miguel Mega (Brazililian Jazz artist); these gifted gentlemen are truly some of the most in-demand recording and touring players in the music biz. The fiery foursome were able to steal time from their hectic schedules to create a project rich in varying guitar styles, combining elements of smooth jazz and jazz fusion. All songs on this effort are originals, with the exception of "Little Sunflower", which was crafted by Freddie Hubbard and Al Jarreau. G-FIRE launches with a killer track by Neilly called "Flight To Ecstacy"... Twelve tracks in all, with each artist taking three turns. Neilly's, intoxicating, sweet electric style is alluring and captivating; O'Connor's tunes are textured with smooth styles, sure to appeal to smooth jazz fans. Chokan has the corner on funk and groove on this effort including "Passin Thru", a silky piece that features the guitarist on trumpet, and Mega's soaring leads deliver strong tracks that include "Wooded" and "Rice & Beans". G-Fire: all four one and one for all! ~Sandy Shore

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GABRIEL MARK HASSELBACH | Gabriel's Horns | Wind Tunnel Multimedia

Smooth... Sweet... Sultry... That's the way Gabriel's horns sound. Critics are calling Gabriel Mark Hasselbach Canada's best kept secret in music. Others are claiming that his talents deserve much broader recognition. We agree! And that's why we're so happy to be introducing Smoothjazz.com's global audience to this impeccable and versatile recording artist. In an unprecedented move, the ambitious Hasselbach has released two CDs at once (see following review for COME OUT SWINGIN'). GABRIEL'S HORNS showcase his smooth jazz prowess and is loaded with material that is sure-fire format hits including the title track, "Gabriel's Horns", the moody, "Maui Rain", and the beautiful "Uber Smooth" with it's soulful, relaxed 1970's vibe. Other favorites include the cinematic "View From The Shore", the sunny "Turn On To Summer" (the album even features an instrumental and a vocal version of this tune featuring Christine Duncan) and a slick, sassy cover of "Chain of Fools". GMH chooses his tools wisely... He plays trumpet and flugelhorn, plus trombone and flute. His artful arsenal has me floating back to "the day", when Tim Weisberg was a twin son, and when Strawberry Letter 23 was open for all to read. GABRIEL'S HORNS has a long shelf life, you will not be taking this one out of the CD player anytime soon. ~Sandy Shore

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GABRIEL MARK HASSELBACH | Come Out Swingin' | Wind Tunnel Multimedia

This is a rich, fantastic jazz album featuring the seductive horns of Gabriel Mark Hasselbach. The setting: Acoustic jazz piano (Miles Black), jazz bass (Miles Foxx Hill), jazz drums (Craig Scott) and guest vocalist Michael Buble who is featured nicely on the Cole Porter penned, "I've Got You Under My Skin". The 'Wow Factor' is pretty high on this CD. We're blown away by the GMH's originals, including the west coast jazz & bop of "Blue Miles" and the lush and sophisticated "Underground Vibe". The artist's choice of covers is truly inspired. Several Cole Porter compositions are featured on COME OUT SWINGIN' including the above mentioned, but also, "I Love Paris" and "I Love You". Both of these are a solid tribute to the late composer. Also covered on this stellar recording, "Lullaby of Birdland", "Round Midnight", and Jon Hendricks and Harry Edison's "Centerpiece". While the project is indeed sophisticated and perhaps meatier than GABRIEL'S HORNS, smooth jazz fans should not be afraid to add this wonderfully crafted album to their collection. Gone are the days when smooth jazz and "jazz" fans sit in separate rooms. Perfect for a Sunday morning or a broody winter's night. ~Sandy Shore

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INCENDIO | Incendio | New World Music

Appropriately enough, this hot (and haute) band is called Incendio (means "fire" in Spanish and Italian). Explosive energy flows from their new self-titled CD. Passion and musical exploration fill the global potpourri of songs on this collection, including not only flamenco influences, but also textures and styles from the Middle East, Ireland, along with jazz, rock, trance and pop nuances as well. The Spanish guitar is the featured instrument, which we believe, weaves romance and soulful stirrings into the recorded Incendio sound. Think Acoustic Alchemy meets Willie & Lobo (two of our favorites). The core group, is made up of guitarist Jim Stubblefield (solo album "Rhythm of the Heart" was a semi-finalist in New Age Voice magazine's "Acoustic Instrumental Album of the Year" category), guitarist Jean-Pierre Durand (recorded and produced music for TV including ET and A&E), bassist Liza Carbe' (performed with Lindsey Buckingham, Leon Patillo and Vixen), drummer Joe Shotwell (toured and recorded with Monty Python's Eric Idle) and percussionist Nicole Falzone (performed with such musical icons as Robbie Robertson, Bobby Caldwell, Thomas Dolby and Paul Schaffer). INCENDIO is the band's fourth recording and their first for the progressively cool recording outfit, New World Music. This is the CD you want playing on your next road trip, or next intensely romantic evening by the fire or stargazing. Check out the exotic yet urbane “La Maguina”, the uplifting, sensual, “Awakening”, and the regal “Zocolo”. INCENDIO is much more than a smolder. ~Sandy Shore

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JOE KURASZ | Soul Searching | Ren Music, Inc.

Keyboardist/Pianist/Hammond B3er, Joe Kurasz began playing at a very early age. His influences where from all genres of music and they included artists like Booker T., John Coltrane, The Temptations, and Burt Bacharach. SOUL SEARCHING is a special collection of songs that are as much a tribute to these inspirations as it is to soulful nostalgia, which we can all appreciate. This project just may end up being my personal favorite independent release this year. Who doesn't love the Hammond B3? It's liquid sunshine... Joe Kurasz has that special something that makes Bob James' and Joe Sample's music so delicious. SOUL SEARCHING is the feel good CD of spring. I recommend a copy of this to everyone who has had just about enough of winter and is ready for the warmer days and the first blossoms on the pear tree. The Album starts off with a little ‘somethin’-somethin’ called “Funky B” featuring the stirring guitar work of George Naha. A great intro to a killer collection of tracks that include “Takin’ A Break”, which sounds like laying on freshly mowed grass on a 1970’s summer day and a sweet version of Jim Croce’s “Operator”. Other covers: “If Loving You Is Wrong”, and “Fooled Around And Fell In Love”. The Smooth Jazz smash is “Crossroads”, featuring Gerald Albright on sax. Joe included a beautiful tune he wrote when he was 16, “A Favorite Memory” that brings to mind Van Morrison. Honestly, every track is exceptional. You NEED to own this one. ~Sandy Shore

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THE LOVE GYPSIES | Go With The Flow | Independent

Uh-oh… Here we go. Isaac Hayes meets Maxwell. And how did this hip thang, complete with chunky guitar and thick with 70’s retro glaze, land on the Smoothjazz.com desk? Not sure. But one thing is for sure, when you walk quietly and carry a large play list like we play on Smoothjazz.com Radio, you’d be surprised what comes into our universe. And we’re glad about that… Keeps us fresh. The Love Gypsies consist of Walt Liskiewicz, Jimmy Shellberg and Taryn Hofert. Based in Jackson, Michigan, the Gypsies’ Liskiewicz started making his dreams come true when retired early from the field of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery to create songs that are original and fresh by partnering up with producer/guitarist Jimmy Shellberg, who owns Sonic Landscapes recording Studio in Jackson. GO WITH THE FLOW is a vocal record… However, the grooves are contagious and will certainly cure what ails you this winter… The project starts with “Hip Hop Nation”, an unbelievably authentic throwback to the 70’s musically yet blended with Hip Hop notions, like scratching. “Straight Up” has one of the best hooks I’ve heard – Bar none. Can’t really say enough good things about the production qualities on GO WITH THE FLOW. On songs like “Uh Huh Yeah” and “Vibe Of The City”, genre jumping is in full swing… 70’s, 80’s and all the chill, trick stuff of today. The love’s flowing from the Gypsies, aright. ~Sandy Shore

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PHILLIP MARTIN | Saxappeal | Independent

Listen up jazz enthusiasts. Check it out radio and recording industry. We have a prodigy! This 24-year-old Orlando, Florida saxophonist's career is ‘bout to blow up. Playing since the tender age of 9, Phillip earned his nickname, "Sax Man" by the time he was 16, and playing lead soloist in the South Plantation High School Jazz Band and placing 2nd in his audition for the All State Jazz Band. Dude walks away with a full scholarship at University of Central Florida. Learns impeccable tone and pitch and becomes first chair in the UCF Jazz Band. Fresh out of college, brand new CD and this very healthy, young man is a shining example of what hard work, focus and determination will get you. This project is going to freak out players who have been at this for longer than Phillip's been alive. His rich, golden tone, his confidence level and excellent ability to craft a song is light years ahead of his age. Take classic jazz sensibilities, add a generous amount of contemporary, fresh grooves and you've got SAXAPPEAL. The CD kicks off with a sophisticated little something called, “Look To The Sky” and weaves into some very hip tracks, including the funky and infectious, “Cindadelic Journey”, the Smooth Jazz jams “Good Day At Work” and “The Way”, the emotive ballad, “What A Day” and the chill-thrill, “Rapture In Light Green”. SAXAPPEAL is serious, solid playing that you can get your groove on with. ~Sandy Shore

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MARTIN MAYER | This Is Who I Am | Martin Mayer Productions, Inc.

Canadian pianist and composer, Martin Mayer is all about the passion of the music; tapping into a calling that is well beyond his years. His compositions speak to music enthusiasts on a level of life and love with sincere emotion and serious musicianship. The twenty-two year old spends the majority of his time writing and producing music all the while closely managing those who manage his career. 'Hands on' is a mild term for Mayer's careful watch on his musical journey. Influenced greatly by dramatic, pop instrumentalists, Yanni and John Tesh, as well as the orchestrated music of Elton John, Martin Mayer is quite comfortable in his own skin, thank you very much. His new release, THIS IS WHO I AM, offers 14 unique, but equally stellar compositions, certain to appeal to music fans all over the world. His youth allows for a boundary less process of song writing - He seamlessly blends, rock with jazz with pop with world rhythms to create a fantastic listening experience. (He apparently never got scolded for coloring outside of the lines.) The first track, "Fiesta Caribena" is a fiery, Latin number that charges your heart (corazon) right out of the gate. Songs like "Cabin by the Lake" and "Santa Catalina" offer inspirational and hopeful melodies. World music influences are showcased on "Irish Dancer" and "Ruins of Time". There's a lovely vocal on "You've Gotta Believe", performed by Shelley Jones, as well as a few delicate solo piano and cello pieces and even a jazzy number called "A la Jarrett" (we have to assume this is a nod to Keith). Having performed in China before 2.5 billion people in four weeks with a 20-piece orchestra, this modern day composer is poised for great things. To think we knew him when. ~Sandy Shore

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THE McKENZIE BURNS PROJECT | The McKenzie Burns Project | McKenzie Burns Productions

This is a solid compilation disc from Chicago-based writers/producers Stewart McKenzie and David Burns that delivers a compelling variety of Smooth R&B and Jazz, Hip-Hop, Latin, and Dance grooves. Every song is a McKenzie-Burns original, too, and features the amazing vocal talents of Chester Gregory II, Zyanya (pronounced “Zonyuh”), Derrick Holland, and Joel Johnson-Friendly. The really cool thing about this album is how each artist’s sound compliments the others’ so well, and yet still comes off as uniquely their own. The selections are diverse in mood, ranging from melancholy (“Thought You Were the One”) to sultry (“Stay With Me”) to exuberant (“Be a Part of You”), wrapped around a delicious blend of engaging melodies, rhythms, and grooves. I especially like “Charisse,” which features Chester Gregory on the vocal. Definitely hit material here! Other tracks that catch my ear in particular are “Make My Days Go By,” featuring Derrick Holland, “Brazilian Love Affair” featuring a duet from Gregory and Zyanya, and the sensual “Stay With Me,” featuring a solo performance by Zyanya. Doing the math on this one…extremely talented singers and musicians + top-notch writing and production = an auspicious start for THE McKENZIE BURNS PROJET, a team that has an incredible future on the radio and on your sound system! ~Scott O'Brien

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JUAN MIGUEL | Amantes | A Mouse in the House

This is an incredibly sensual and romantic album. Let’s just get that clear right up front! Keyboardist Juan Miguel (John Michael Roch) draws on his Latin background to create his third album, AMANTES (Lovers). The CD is a rich and passionate soundtrack for your most intimate moments. Born in Barcelona and raised for 12 years in Cuba before moving to the U.S. would explain his affinity for ‘musica romantica’. Sr. Miguel layers acoustic guitar, woodwinds, harmonica, violin, and both whispered and sung vocals (en Espanol) over his sensual keyboards, percussion, and electronica. The result is a most delightful collection of musical soundscapes… Powerful. Riveting. Sensual (can’t really overemphasize that word). This is a “feeling” album, so we invite you to feel the power of such compositions as “Besame,” Secretos,” “Una Noche en Manhattan,” and the title, “Amantes.” There is a Yanni-esque style of passion in Juan Miguel’s playing and compositions, but there remains a definite uniqueness. Especially as the songs are all Latin tinged… Extending from Spanish lyrics to bi-lingual album notes. Our advice with this album is simple: Buy it. Then share it with your amante (real or fantasy) on those special times when the nights are warm, the lights are low, and amore is electric in the atmosphere! ~Scott O'Brien

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NURA | Nura | Start Music Productions

Canadian singer, Nura is fresh and soothing like a cool sorbet on a warm day. This delicate, graceful debut offers a new, hip take on "easy listening". The artist's genre jumping sound blends jazz with smooth pop, elements of R&B, hints of Brazilian and Latin music and even rap is tastefully woven into a tune called, "Hangin"". The chilled, "We're Not Alone" is gaining attention from coast to coast on Smooth Jazz radio in the U.S. Another stand out track for us, is "I'd Like To See You Again" with it's haunting yet hopeful melody and stunning fretless bass work and elegant piano playing. Partner in crime, Stuart Steinhart is solely responsible for half of the albums breezy compositions and the remainder he co-wrote with Nura. Steinhart is an artful bass player who experiments with tuning on his instruments creating a very unique and distinctive bass sound. Nura brings a Metheny-like, cinematic quality to her songs. Her clean, honey-smooth vocals are layered into each melody as one would place a trumpet, saxophone or guitar. NURA is a little Cirque du Soleil, a little Astrud, a lot smooth, and a lot easy. This is the album to put on just before dusk and let it play through until the sun sets and leaves behind it's trails of pink, orange and lavender. ~Sandy Shore

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DAVE OSOFF | Mosaic | Lunengroove Music

From New England comes this dynamic keyboardist, with an exciting project that covers all the musical bases. From rock to pop to blues to boogie-woogie to Smooth Jazz… Dave Osoff has been touring and performing for well over 15 years, and it’s time now for his talents to be exposed to the world. Check out “Even Now (I Still Think of You),” a melodic ballad that’s definitely got hit potential. Also among our favorites here at Smoothjazz.com are “Daybreak,” featuring Erik Ringstad on acoustic guitar, and “Undercover,” a slow blues piece that ramps up to a stunning peak before it calms back down, and showcases the artist’s playing, as well as the fine sax work of Amadee Castenell. Now we know why Dave gets such high marks around the Boston area.  He’s at such ease with a variety of material. A 'wicked good' track to check out, though not really Smooth Jazz, is Dave’s treatment of the George Harrison-penned “Savoy Truffle", originally found on the Beatles' White Album. Dave cites Harrison as a lifelong musical and spiritual inspiration, and dedicates his version of the tune to the late guitar legend. Here’s our recommendation: Get a copy of MOSAIC for yourself, and join the folks in New England who are already big fans of this keyboardist’s fine work. It won’t be long before Dave Osoff becomes a familiar name everywhere else in the world.